Overview

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, with 11 of those points coming from 14 free throw attempts.
• Doris Burke referred to Gilgeous-Alexander as a 'free-throw merchant' during the ESPN broadcast, echoing sentiments from NBA fans and sparking wider discourse.
• Timberwolves coach Chris Finch and players expressed frustration over officiating, with Finch urging his team to focus on maintaining composure during the series.
• Media voices are divided, with some, including Stephen A. Smith, defending SGA’s tactics as skillful, while others, like Bill Simmons, question the fairness of the officiating.
• SGA addressed the criticism, emphasizing that drawing fouls is a strategic part of his game aimed at helping the Thunder secure wins.